Landlords Legionella Risk Assessments

What is Legionella?Legionnaires' disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia caused by the inhalation of small droplets of contaminated water containing Legionella. All man-made hot and cold water systems are likely to provide an environment where Legionella can grow. Where conditions are favourable (ie suitable growth temperature range; water droplets (aerosols) produced and dispersed; water stored and/or recirculated; some 'food' for the organism to grow such as rust, sludge, scale, biofilm etc) then the bacteria may multiply thus increasing the risk of exposure. It is a simple fact that the organism will colonise both large and small systems so both require risks to be managed effectively.

What does the landlord need to do?As the person controlling premises you need to decide what water installations or systems on the premises may give rise to a risk of Legionella. You can carry out a risk assessment yourself if you are competent, or you can employ an external contractor who is.

A simple Legionella risk assessment may show that there are no real risks from legionella and no further action may be required. However, it is important to review the risk assessment regularly in case anything changes.

The law and youThe law is clear that if you are a landlord and rent out your property (or even a room within your own home) then you have legal responsibilities [link to external website] to ensure the health and safety of your tenant by keeping the property safe and free from health hazards.

What happens if the landlord does not carry out his/her obligations?The consequences can be serious. As a landlord you are legally required to manage properties so as not to expose tenants, residents and visitors to risk. Heavy fines or even imprisonment can be imposed especially if someone were to unfortunately die. You can be prosecuted even if there is an exposure to risk without anyone actually becoming ill.

What We can do to help you ?AR Electrics have trained engineers that have undergone specialist Legionella training to allow us to be fully educated and competent in issuing quality assured risk assessments for you property. We have fully calibrated testing meters and tools to make sure all reading of water systems and tanks are accurate.